I like the small dorm factor and don't need more than the current two analogue inputs since any dac is essentially a hub for other additional sources. So the option of an extender is also a smart solution for those who need it. Ì would say that even the combined price is reasonable if if it performs like the substantially more expensive Benchmark pre/hp amp.
BUT, as stated earlier by VeerK with all due respect, how does the price of the pre90 exceed that of the a90? You trade a more expensive relay volume control for additional amplification and headphone inputs. Perhaps Topping has taken a decision to lower value and increase margins.
Maybe it's the opposite? I didn't want to reply to this thread but as you are actually giving some valuable points. Here's the deal.
599 now only worth 549 in June. That's half of the price difference.
The amplification is reduced in half but the same same time same structure this doesn't reduce much money only the board occupation. 2 relays are basically evening out the difference of the different amplification circuit. Then you add even more relays not only for the volume control but for switching and screen etc. Also would any one think a 300 dollar extender unit sane? Even 249 is a bit high for many. But the extender itself cost quite a lot to make so we eased a bit to the main unit. Hence 599+249. Reducing another 50 bucks won't make a meaningful difference for people commented above as you see. So that's it.
Also from a different perspective pre90 is not to compete with A90. It's a dedicated preamp. Think about it.
Our first up coming power amp is a integrated amp. So that shouldn't need this either. So we don't at first expect this to sell like other products. This is targeted to specific people. It's also a preparation for the higher end monoblock poweramp. 599 is really not that much. 849 for multiple inputs and all the features built into it is not unfair also. If you look around the competition. There's simply no competition. H16 from gustard is cheaper yes but with much worse performance especially when reduced volume. If one doesn't care about the performance, safe volume, saved volume features on pre90, H16 is the way to go. Go get it. If remote is not essential, A90 is there for you. And go go get it.
Pre90 doesn't make much sense because it doesn't mean to.
The new A30pro and D30pro will be a very good deal for most people here.